Rouble Nagi is one of India’s most inspiring artists and social workers. Born on 8 July 1980 in Jammu and Kashmir, she is now 45 years old. Over the years, she has become known not only for her art but also for her work in transforming slums and communities through creativity. Her journey shows how one person’s vision can change thousands of lives.
She is the founder of the Rouble Nagi Art Foundation, an organisation that uses art and education to uplift underprivileged children. With more than 800 murals and 150 exhibitions to her credit, she has left her mark in India and abroad. In February 2026, she made headlines when she won the Global Teacher Prize, becoming the first Indian woman to receive this honour.
Rouble Nagi Age, Husband, Career, Family, BIO
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Rouble Nagi |
| Date of Birth | 8 July 1980 |
| Age (as of 2026) | 45 years |
| Birthplace | Jammu & Kashmir, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Zodiac Sign | Cancer |
| Profession | Artist, Sculptor, Social Worker |
| Known For | Public Art Installations, Sculptures, Murals, Social Work, Misaal Mumbai |
| Alma Mater | Slade School of Fine Art, London; Sotheby’s, London |
| Educational Qualification | Graduation in Political Science; Fine Arts training in London |
| Husband | Saahil Samrat Nagi |
| Children | Information not publicly detailed |
| Family Background | Father: G. S. Soodan (Retd. Colonel); Two brothers |
| Major Initiatives | Rouble Nagi Art Foundation; Misaal Mumbai (Slum Painting Project) |
| Awards & Honours | Jijamata Award (2013), GR8 Women Artist of the Year (2013), Society Young Achievers Award (2013), IFEFA Award (Australia), Global Teacher Prize (2026) |
| Publications | The Slum Queen (Book, 2022) |
| @roublenagi/ | |
| Wikipedia | @Rouble_Nagi |
Early Life and Background
On 8 July 1980, Rouble was born in Jammu and Kashmir, a region known for its natural beauty and cultural richness. Growing up in this environment gave her a deep appreciation for art and tradition. Her father, G. S. Soodan, was a retired Colonel, and her family background instilled discipline and values that shaped her personality. She also has two brothers, with whom she shared a close bond during childhood.
From a young age, Rouble showed interest in drawing and painting. She often experimented with colours and forms, which later became the foundation of her career. Her childhood experiences in Jammu and Kashmir also made her sensitive to social issues. She saw how communities struggled with poverty and lack of opportunities, and these early observations influenced her later decision to use art for social good.
Education and Artistic Training
Rouble Nagi’s education reflects her passion for both academics and art. She first completed her graduation in Political Science, which gave her a strong understanding of society and governance. Later, she pursued Fine Arts at the Slade School of Fine Art in London, one of the world’s most respected institutions for art education.
Her training did not stop there. She also studied European Art at Sotheby’s in London, which exposed her to global styles and techniques. This international exposure helped her develop a unique artistic voice that blends Indian traditions with modern influences.
Career Beginnings in Art
Nagi’s career started with small exhibitions and art shows where she displayed her early works. Her first steps were not easy, but her dedication to art helped her gain recognition. She experimented with different mediums such as ceramics, glass, and metal, which made her work stand out from other artists.
She soon realised that her passion was not limited to painting on canvas. She wanted to take art outside galleries and into public spaces. This idea led her to create murals and installations that could be seen by everyone, not just art lovers. Her early projects in Mumbai and other cities showed her ability to combine creativity with social purpose.
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Rise to Prominence
Over time, Rouble became known as one of India’s most active muralists. She has created more than 800 murals and organised over 150 exhibitions across the world. Her work is not only about beauty but also about meaning. Each mural tells a story, often reflecting the lives of ordinary people.
She became a member of the India Design Council, which gave her a platform to influence design and art policies. Her projects in Mumbai, including the beautification of public spaces, brought her national attention. She was often praised for turning dull walls into vibrant pieces of art that uplifted communities.
Awards and Achievements
In 2013, she received the Jijamata Award, which honoured her contribution to society through art. The same year, she was named GR8 Women Artist of the Year and also received the Society Young Achievers Award. These awards highlighted her growing influence in the art world and her role as a young leader.
Her recognition did not stop there. She was honoured with the IFEFA Award in Australia, which celebrated her international impact. In February 2026, she achieved a historic milestone by winning the Global Teacher Prize, becoming the first Indian woman to receive this award. The prize acknowledged her efforts in using murals and art-based learning centres to educate children in slums and villages.
Social Work and Philanthropy
While her art was gaining fame, Rouble felt a strong need to use her skills for social good. She founded the Rouble Nagi Art Foundation, which focuses on education and community development through art. The foundation works in slums, villages, and schools, bringing creativity to children who often have no access to such opportunities.
One of her most famous initiatives is Misaal Mumbai, launched in 2016. This project aimed to transform slums by painting their walls with bright colours and murals. The idea was simple but powerful: when people live in a clean and colourful environment, they feel dignity and pride. Her foundation has set up learning centres in slums and villages, where children can study and explore their talents.
Personal Life
Behind her public achievements, Rouble has a strong family support system. She is married to Saahil Samrat Nagi, who has stood by her throughout her journey. Their marriage reflects a partnership built on trust and shared values.
Rouble and Saahil have children, and she often speaks about balancing her family life with her professional commitments. Despite her busy schedule, she makes time for her family, showing that success does not mean sacrificing personal happiness. Her children are a source of inspiration, and she believes in raising them with the same values of compassion and creativity that guide her work.
Interesting Facts About Rouble Nagi
- She has created more than 800 murals and organised over 150 exhibitions worldwide.
- She is the first Indian woman to win the Global Teacher Prize (2026), awarded for her innovative use of art in education.
- Her project Misaal Mumbai transformed slums by painting walls with bright colours, giving residents a sense of pride and dignity.
- She studied at the Slade School of Fine Art in London and trained at Sotheby’s, gaining international exposure.
- She is married to Saahil Samrat Nagi and balances her family life with her professional commitments.
- Her foundation has set up learning centres in slums and villages, helping children get basic education and vocational training.
- She advocates for women empowerment and environmental sustainability through her projects.
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